In a representative democracy, the right of decision belongs to the majority, but the right to representation belongs to all. FairVote advocates for adoption of proportional voting systems for local and state elections, and for an informed debate about their merits for congressional elections.

Justices Weigh Partisan Gerrymandering, Legislators Seek Solutions

Senator Johnson Introduces Federal Independent Redistricting Bill

As
the battles over partisan gerrymandering and re-redistricting move to
the Supreme Court, experts suggest that the court is unlikely to
dramatically change the status quo. As a result, efforts to reform the
system through the political process may become critical to ending the
partisan self-interest that has corrupted our line-drawing process.

In
light of this, FairVote applauds Senator Tim Johnson's recent decision
to introduce a Senate-side companion bill to Rep. John Tanner's
Fairness and Independence in Redistricting Act. FairVote took the NGO
lead in suggesting a national approach to the problem for congressional
districts and in helping to draft and support the Tanner bill. Stay
tuned for more reports and analysis.

In Detroit, there have been three mayors in the past two years and the current one has come under scrutiny. Perhaps a system like instant runoff voting will help bring political stability to motor city.